Strands

Stranded wires are thin, flexible cables consisting of several individual thin wires that are twisted together. They are often used to make electrical connections or to connect electrical circuits.

Stranded wires are used in a variety of applications, including wiring electrical circuits, making cables and wires, connecting components in electronic devices and connecting plugs and sockets.

By using stranded wire instead of solid wire, the flexibility of the cable is increased, making it easier to bend and route. This is particularly important in applications where the wires move or need to be connected and disconnected frequently, such as portable devices or in the automotive industry.

Strands are produced by twisting several individual threads together. The threads are twisted together to achieve greater stability and flexibility. The exact manufacturing method depends on the type of stranded wire.

There are different types of stranded wire, which can contain different materials depending on their intended use. The most common materials from which stranded wires are made are

1. copper: copper stranded wires are often used for electrical connections because copper is a good conductor.

2. aluminum: Aluminum strands are also used for electrical applications, as aluminum is less conductive than copper, but lighter and less expensive.

3. steel: Steel strands are often used for ropes and cables as they have a high tensile strength.

4. nylon: Nylon strands are used in various applications, e.g. for protective sheathing or as a reinforcing material.

Depending on the application, other materials such as polyester, polyethylene, aramid or fiberglass can also be incorporated into the strands to improve specific properties such as heat resistance, weather resistance or tensile strength.

There are different types of stranded wire, which have different properties depending on their intended use and requirements. Here are some of the most common types of stranded wire:

1. single wire stranded wire: this type of stranded wire consists of individual, insulated wires that are grouped together. They are flexible and easy to handle, but are not suitable for applications with high currents or mechanical loads.

2. multi-strand stranded wire: This stranded wire consists of several thin wires that are grouped together. They offer greater flexibility and are more resistant to mechanical stresses. Multi-stranded wires are often used in applications that require a high degree of flexibility, such as in cable harnesses or in the electronics industry.

3. coaxial stranded wire: This type of stranded wire consists of a central inner conductor surrounded by an insulating layer and an outer shield. Coaxial stranded wire is often used in high-frequency technology as it offers good protection against electromagnetic interference.

4. stranded wires with a tinned surface: These strands are coated with a thin layer of tin to prevent corrosion. They are often used in applications where good conductivity and corrosion resistance are required, such as in the automotive or telecommunications industries.

5. silicone strands: These strands are provided with a silicone insulation that has a high temperature resistance. They are often used in applications that require high temperatures, such as in the aerospace industry or in the electrical industry.

6. teflon strands: These strands are coated with Teflon insulation, which has a high temperature resistance and chemical resistance. They are often used in applications where extreme temperatures or aggressive chemicals occur, such as in the chemical industry or in medical technology.

These are just a few examples of different types of stranded wire. Depending on the requirements and areas of application, there may be other specialized types of stranded wire.

Stranded wires are used in various applications in electrical engineering. Here are some examples:

1. cable and wire manufacturing: stranded wires are often used as single wires or as bundles to make cables or wires. They are used as flexible connections for power transmission in electrical and electronic devices.

2. electronics: In electronics, stranded wires are used for wiring circuit boards and assemblies. They enable a flexible connection between the individual components and thus facilitate the assembly and replacement of components.

3. automotive industry: Stranded wires are also used in the automotive industry to make electrical connections in vehicles. They are used, for example, for wiring motors, headlights, signaling systems and other electrical components.

4. energy technology: In energy technology, stranded wires are used for the production of power lines and cables. They serve as flexible connections for the transmission of electrical energy over long distances.

5. measurement and control technology: Stranded wires are also used in measurement and control technology to transmit signals from sensors or actuators. They serve as flexible connections between the various components and enable precise measurement and control of processes.

6. medical technology: In medical technology, stranded wires are used for the cabling of medical devices and instruments. They serve as flexible connections for the transmission of signals and power in diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

This list is not exhaustive, as there are many other areas of application for stranded wires in electrical engineering.

Stranded wires offer several advantages compared to solid cables and wires:

1. flexibility: stranded wires consist of several thin individual wires that are twisted together. This makes them more flexible and better able to adapt to tight spaces. Solid cables and wires are generally stiffer and less flexible.

2. bending strength: Due to the twisting of the individual wires, stranded wires are more resistant to bending and can withstand more bending cycles without breaking. Solid cables and wires are more susceptible to breakage and damage from frequent bending.

3. current carrying capacity: Due to the larger surface area provided by the many individual wires, stranded wires offer a higher current carrying capacity compared to solid cables and wires. This enables a more efficient transmission of electrical current.

4. vibration resistance: Stranded wires are more resistant to vibrations due to their flexibility and ability to adapt to movement. They can absorb shocks better, which makes them ideal for applications in the automotive industry or in mechanical engineering applications.

5. space saving: Due to their flexibility, stranded wires are easier to route and take up less space than more solid cables and wires. This is particularly advantageous in confined spaces or complex installations.

6. weight reduction: Due to their lower material density, stranded wires are lighter than solid cables and wires. This is particularly relevant in the aerospace industry, where weight savings are of great importance.

Overall, stranded wires offer a number of advantages in terms of flexibility, bending strength, current carrying capacity, vibration resistance, space saving and weight reduction compared to solid cables and wires.